As the Chicago Cubs prepare to face the San Francisco Giants in a crucial match to avoid a four-game sweep, the team finds itself grappling with several challenges. One significant setback is the injury to Javier Assad, who has been placed on the injured list due to a forearm extensor strain. Assad has been a standout performer this season, boasting a WAR of 2.2, the highest on the team. With a 4-3 record and a 3.04 ERA across 83 innings, his absence is a tough pill to swallow for the Cubs.
Even more concerning is Assad's recent performance trajectory. After an impressive start to the season, including a stellar 2.27 ERA in May, his form dipped significantly in June, culminating in a 0-2 record and a 5.49 ERA. The inconsistency adds another layer of complexity as the Cubs navigate this challenging period.
In contrast, Shota Imanaga has been a beacon of hope on the mound, maintaining an exceptional 0.84 ERA through nine starts. Jameson Taillon, with a 2.90 ERA, and Justin Steele, registering a 3.08 ERA over 11 starts, have also been solid contributors.
Rising Stars and Offensive Struggles
Adding to the pitching depth, young talents Ben Brown and Jordan Wicks have made positive impacts in their respective starts. However, the Cubs' problems aren't confined to the pitcher's mound. Offensive struggles are evident, with the team ranking 11th in the National League in runs scored and 12th in batting average. While the Cubs have managed to achieve an 8th-place ranking in on-base percentage, their slugging percentage languishes in 12th place.
The bullpen, often seen as a barometer of a team’s resilience, has recorded 22 losses and blown 17 saves this season. Such figures underscore the pressing issues that must be addressed if the Cubs aim to climb out of the basement of their division.
Defensive Woes
Defensively, the statistics paint a bleak picture. The team's overall efficiency is below average, and they find themselves in the bottom third for defensive runs saved. Nearly at the bottom for total zone runs, these defensive shortcomings have exacerbated the Cubs' difficult season.
The club’s early-season promise, encapsulated by a 17-9 start, now feels like a distant memory. Since then, the Cubs have stumbled to a 20-35 record with a -58 run differential, placing them at a disappointing 37-44 and firmly in last place within their division.
The Road Ahead
The Cubs face crucial questions as they seek to reverse their fortunes. Addressing the bullpen’s failings and finding consistency in both offensive and defensive facets of the game are the immediate priorities. The absence of Javier Assad further complicates the situation, making it imperative for other players to step up in his stead.
As fans await the afternoon showdown with the Giants, hope hinges on whether the remaining talent can coalesce to stem the tide of this difficult season. While the current outlook for the Cubs is challenging, sports have a way of surprising us. For now, every game is a crucial opportunity to turn the narrative around.